Vehicle Description
Before Datsun's stylish and affordable 240Z fastback coupe arrived
on the scene, Americans were stubbornly skeptical of Japanese
automobiles. Despite Datsun's dominant presence in SCCA racing with
the 510 sedan and 1600/2000 roadsters, it still took something
special to win over American buyers' famously fickle hearts.
Designed specifically for this market, the 240Z offered four-wheel
independent suspension, an overhead-cam inline-six, and superior
reliability, all at a highly competitive price compared to its
competition. The beautiful and exciting Datsun 240Z captured the
hearts of buyers from the moment it arrived and transformed not
only Datsun's reputation but also nearly all of the Japanese motor
industry as they made inroads in the all-important American market.
The 240Z remains one of the most widely-beloved Japanese cars of
all time, and in recent years, it has made the jump from
cult-classic to a serious collector car. The 1972 240Z featured
here is a lovely example of Datsun's groundbreaking sports car
that's enjoyed regular care and maintenance by a series of
dedicated enthusiasts. In the early 2000s, it received a ground-up
restoration by marque specialists Awesome Z of Houston, Texas.
Having been a long-time Texas car before the restoration, it was
reportedly very solid, necessitating only minor repairs to the
structure. The restored shell was then sprayed in this striking
shade of red (Toyota "Absolutely Red") and fitted with new chrome
bumpers, new gaskets, weather stripping, and details like new old
stock taillights. Fit and finish are very good and car remains
crisp and attractive. Period-style touches include white
factory-style rocker stripes and 14-inch Panasport alloy wheels,
fitted with fresh 195/70 radials for the ideal stance. The interior
was fully restored and updated with black leather seat upholstery
that mimics the pattern of the originals. Details of the
restoration include a rare original Nissan wood shift knob,
restored original wood steering wheel, and factory OE replacement
dash. An Alpine AM/FM/CD audio system provides an alternative to
the gutsy six-cylinder soundtrack, and for the purist, the original
radio accompanies the sale. The leather seats are in fine order,
displaying some minor creasing and character, consistent with the
age of the restoration. Door panels are true to original
specification and in good condition, and the same goes for the
carpets and upholstered cargo area. Beneath the boot floor is an
original steel spare wheel and Bridgestone tire. Nissan's 2.4-liter
inline-six is one of the all-time great classic engines. Torquey
and powerful, the six is perfect pairing for the 240Z's superb
chassis. This car's original, number-matching engine was completely
rebuilt during the initial restoration, and it has been maintained
in excellent condition since. The chrome Nissan "2400 OHC" cam
cover, chrome individual air cleaners, and polished accessories,
complement the excellent engine bay paintwork. The correct SU
carburetors were restored by specialists Z Therapy of Salem Oregon.
It also features a ceramic coated header feeding a sports exhaust
system, and a discreetly integrated R-134 air conditioning system.
The underside is well-detailed, with uprated sport suspension and a
very rare factory splash pan. Prior to its restoration, this Z
featured on the cover of Ben Millspaugh's reference book, "Z Car: A
Legend in its Own Time," a copy of which is included in the sale.
In 2006, this car was shown at the 19th International Z Car
Convention in Dallas, Texas, scoring 290 points and the Gold Cup
award, which remains with the car. In the year since, it has been
cherished by its caretakers it remains a marvelous example of
Datsun's beautiful, game-changing sports coupe. Offers welcome and
trades considered For additional details please view this listing
directly on our website
https://hymanltd.com/vehicles/6936-1972-datsun-240z-coupe/
